A Guide To Bhagsunath Temple, Mcleodganj

Things to do/ highlights

Located about 3 kilometers (1.86 miles) from the center of Mcleodganj, this amazing temple is one of India’s oldest. This historical site is nestled amidst lush greenery and surrounded by natural pools. Let’s take a look at all the things to see and do here:

Pray at the temple

Just 2 km (1.24 mi) off McLeodganj Bus Stand lies Bhagsunath Temple. The temple is built in dedication to Lord Shiva and the local deity, Bhagsu Nag. The temple is believed to have been constructed under the instructions of King Bhagsu of Rajasthan. It was built at the beginning of the 19th century and has since then become an important place of worship for the 14 Gurkha platoon villages in Dharamshala. During your visit, you’ll gain plenty of information and learn many interesting facts about the site. Be sure to pay your respects to the elders of the temple before taking a quiet moment to pray in a corner of the temple. Thereafter, bask in the tranquillity of the surrounding nature. Upon your return, you’ll surely have amazing stories to tell your friends.

Swim in the pond

A beautiful waterfall is present not far from the temple. The streams from this waterfall and nearby icy mountains form many natural ponds or swimming pools. Bhagsunath Temple has three small pools, with one dedicated to swimming. But get into the pool only if you can stand the ice-cold water. Also, don’t forget to bring an empty water bottle for you can fill it up with pure mountain water from a pipe adjacent to the source.

Travel tips

Dress properly

Since it is a holy site, visitors are advised to dress modestly when visiting Bhagsunath Temple. Even if you’re planning to swim in the pool, make sure your swimwear isn’t too revealing. Also, since the destination requires visitors to walk a lot to reach the area, don’t forget to don proper outdoor attire.

Photography

Certain areas of the temple are not open to photography, in order to maintain their sanctity. Please respect the rules by refraining from taking selfies or any other form of photography within the restricted areas. Signages are posted inside the temple and visitors should pay attention to them to know more about the areas where photography is permitted. You can also ask the temple guardians for more information.

Don't enter the prohibited area

Although the temple is open to the public, it is still a religious site. Thus, don’t be surprised to find out that certain sections of the temple are not open to visitors, in order to main the sanctity of the site. It is best to maintain orderly behavior by staying out of these areas. Follow the signages on the walls of the temple for further guidance.

Best time to visit

The temple is best visited during the annual fair held in September each year. Visitors are highly advised not to come here during the monsoon season because the area surrounding the temple sees frequent landslides. There have been several instances of landslides in the past that have taken many lives. It is also good to keep in mind that since the route to the temple from the parking lot is a difficult one, people with mobility issues might want to reconsider their options.

How to get there

Autorickshaw or taxis

Since the temple is located in a rural area, no public transport is available to it. However, you can hire an autorickshaw from the main street. The autorickshaw will drop you to the market near the temple and then, you’ll have to walk for 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) to the entrance of the temple. Another way to reach the temple is by booking a pre-paid cab to reach the village of Mcleodganj, which is situated 9 kilometers (5.5 miles) away from Dharamshala road. From the village, walk for another 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) to reach the temple.

Private cars

You can drive your own car or a rented one to reach the temple. Driving directions are easily available if you are driving from Dharamshala or McLeodganj.

Parking information

Parking spots are limited and the road from the parking area to the temple has lots of highs and lows. Hence, if you plan to reach the area by private cars, you might want to visit before or after the holiday season.

Bhagsunath Temple information

Bhagsunath Temple

Address: Palampur - Dharamshala Rd, Bhagsu Nag, McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh 176216, India

Opening Hours: 5am - 12pm, 4pm - 9pm (daily)

Department of tourism: Himachal Pradesh Tourism

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